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Phil Parkinson was delighted with Bolton's 'terrific' win against Sunderland, saying his team came through huge pressure to secure all three points.

Zach Clough scored the only goal at Macron Stadium, as Wanderers moved four points clear of the relegation zone on an evening where the Black Cats dropped to the bottom of the Championship table.

Speaking after the game, Parkinson admitted the victory meant more than their last - against Bristol City - whilst reserving added praise for squad players who haven't featured as much as they may have liked in recent months.

"It was a big game and a tough night because there was a lot at stake and we're pleased with the points," Parkinson told bwfc.co.uk.

"It's a big win because tonight the onus was on us, there was a different feel about the place and we had to dig deep and show a lot of resilience tonight and I'm very proud of the lads.

"We had a big win live on TV against Bristol City but I'm more pleased with today because when a top six side comes there is not a great expectation.

"Psychologically it was in the back of everyone's minds that we last lost at home to a team below us in Burton, so I'm glad that we've managed to shake that off.

"We can enjoy it because it's good when you win these pressure games and they stand you in good stead because there's going to be more and we've got to be ready for them.

"After we got the goal I thought that Sunderland played like they had nothing to lose and we relaxed a little bit and sat back too much, thinking the job was done, but it never is.

"In the second half, we had some good chances. We hit the bar and Alfie had a great header and we came close to a second goal but when you don’t get it you’re always concerned you'll get punished.

"With six minutes being added on it meant we had to really dig deep but we did and I'm proud of the lads because we looked as though we were fatiguing as a team but in the end it was a terrific win for us."